Some of the biggest news in the green world last week was reactions to a study that show the possible adverse effects of bottles (and other products) made with bisphenol A, or BPA, the chemical used to make my beloved Nalgene bottles. This news hit home when I heard an interview on NPR with one of the study’s authors.

While I was aware that putting these bottles in the dishwasher (top-rack only) could lead to a breakdown and possible seepage of chemicals–which is why I would replace bottles every 6 to 12 months–this newest news is too dire to ignore. In fact, with Nalgene pulling all of its hard-plastic bottles from store shelves immediately, it’s time for me to pull my Nalgene bottles from my shelves, too.

As you know using a reusable water bottle is a smart step towards reducing disposable plastic water bottles in landfills, especially since some studies indicate that only about 10 to 20 percent of plastic water bottles actually make it to a recycling facility. The rest? They get dumped in landfills.

Surprisingly, TreeHugger hasn’t come out and damned Nalgene bottles, but instead offers some level-headed advice on what to do about preventing any possible BPA exposure in the future–and what kinds of products you should choose to remain BPA free.

I think what’s also important to point out is that not all Nalgene water bottles are worth worrying about. Check out this comparison chart on the Nalgene Choice website. It spells out for you which bottles contain BPA (yes to the polycarbonate, screw-top bottles that I use and pack in my kids’ lunch everyday–no more) and which don’t (the 32-ounce, green “Filter for Good” bottle that I’ve been using. That’s a huge relief).

I’ve heard that the best and safest reusable bottle you can use is one made from stainless steel. I’m thinking at this point, to be a smart and safe consumer, you should make sure that any reusable water bottle you choose says straight out that its BPA free. This is especially important if you’ve been using these bottles in your kids’ lunches, since recent studies have said that BPA may adversely affect youngsters the most.

What concerns me as well is this notion that BPA is in dental sealants, which both of my kids recently had applied to their 12-year molars, and the composite fillings I’ve got in my mouth. The American Dental Association says there’s no cause for concern. Nonetheless, I’ll have to give the dentist a call about all of this.